Mold is a type of fungus that grows indoors and outdoors. It thrives in moist, warm conditions and reproduces by means of tiny, lightweight spores that travel through the air. You're exposed to mold every day. In small amounts, mold spores are usually harmless, but when they land on a damp spot in your home, they can start to grow. When mold is growing on a surface, spores can be released into the air where they can be easily inhaled. If you're sensitive to mold and inhale a large number of spores, you could experience health problems. 

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The CDC, or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, warns about the dangers of living with mold in the home: Respiratory tract symptoms that include coughing, wheezing, and swelling of the throat. Those who have asthma and allergy problems are especially at risk.

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Where Do Molds Grow?

Your walls, floors, appliances, carpet, or furniture – they can all provide the food mold needs to grow. But the thing all molds need most is moisture, so you're most likely to see mold in damp places such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, and crawl spaces.

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​What causes mold in a house?

Mold and mildew need only a damp, moist environment and organic material to establish themselves and thrive. Roof and foundation leaks, high interior humidity, overflowing washing machines and more severe forms of flooding are common sources of moisture and are what causes mold in a house.